Text: Daniel 1:3-8, 11-20
Memory verse:
“As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Proverbs‬ ‭27‬:‭17‬ ‭NKJV‬‬
‭‭
The great evangelist, Billy Graham once quipped, “God’s children are guaranteed the richest and truest friendship, both here and hereafter.”
Our text expresses such riches and the depth of influence that godly friendships can give. The NLT of our memory text puts it this way: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were very young Israelites who were taken as captives to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. When they were set apart to be fed with the King’s meat, Daniel influenced his friends positively (Daniel 1:11-12). He asked not only for himself but that his friends should also be served with vegetables and water for ten days.
The influence of friends can literally have life and death consequences. The friendship of the four Hebrew young men led to life and promotion.
Our friends help define who we really are, thus, it is important to choose wisely. Friendships that honour and glorify God are characterised by several factors.
One of such factors is mutual respect and love. True Christian friendships are grounded in love (that is not self seeking) and respect. These friendships encourage each other to grow in faith and character.
“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” (Prov 13:20 KJV).
Shared faith and values are also important components of godly friendships. Friends who share a commitment to Christ can support each other in living out their faith, providing encouragement and accountability in their spiritual journeys. Daniel had led this in Daniel 1:8 and later when Shadrach, Meshack and Abednego came face to face with the fiery furnace, they still chose God above any persecution (Daniel 3:16-18). They held each other in accountability in the fear of the Almighty God.
Another factor is that of encouragement and support. A friendship that glorifies God involves uplifting each other, providing emotional and spiritual support, and helping one another navigate life’s challenges with a God-centered perspective. “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” (Prov 18:24 NIV)
What kind of friend are you? Who are your companions? Are you influencing each others positively?

Prayer points
1. Father, please make me a living example of a godly friend at all times.
2. My Father, please let me be the iron that would sharpen my friends unto good works.

Today’s declarations
1. I refuse to be a companion of fools.
2. I will not come to ruin because I will not follow unreliable friends.

Contact: pastor@thf.org.ng